Benue Assembly reinstates six suspended lawmakers after apology

The Benue State House of Assembly has reinstated six out of the thirteen lawmakers previously suspended for challenging the removal of the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese.

The reinstatement was announced on Tuesday during plenary, following the submission of formal appeals and letters of apology by the affected lawmakers.

Those recalled include Hon. Simon Gabo, Hon. Elias Audu, Hon. Solomon Gyila, Hon. William Ortyom, Hon. Blessed Onah, and Hon. Anyor Mato.

Naija News recalls that the lawmakers were initially suspended after they publicly condemned the ousting of the Chief Judge, labeling the action as unconstitutional and a violation of the principles of separation of powers and fair hearing.

On February 19, 2025, the dissenting lawmakers held a press briefing in Makurdi, where they criticized the manner in which Justice Ikpambese was removed, claiming due process was not followed.

Following that, the Speaker of the House imposed a three-month suspension on the 13 lawmakers, accusing them of misconduct and acts deemed likely to sow division within the Assembly. They were also ordered to refund funds previously disbursed for an international legislative trip they could no longer attend.

However, during Tuesday’s plenary, the House acknowledged the apology letters from the six lawmakers. A voice vote was conducted, leading to their official reinstatement.

The Assembly, however, maintained that the remaining seven suspended members will remain barred from legislative activities until they also tender written appeals.